Red Sox Announce Three 'All-Fenway' Teams

Pedey Joins All-Fenway 1st Team (FenwayNation Photo)

Say what you will about the NOG (and we certainly do say a lot), but when The Mad Dentist puts on a ceremony, it is Hollywood good. Dr. Charles Steinberg, the Red Sox PR guru, orchestrated a classy, low-key presentation of the All-Fenway Team last night—a 40-player and 3 manager group of the 'best of the best' in Boston baseball history. Three All-Fenway squads were voted by fans, baseball historians and front office staff. The teams look like this:

FIRST TEAM: Fisk C, Foxx 1B, Pedroia 2B, Boggs 3B, Garciaparra SS, Williams LF, Lynn CF, Evans RF, Martinez RHP, Grove LHP, Papelbon CL, Ortiz DH, Carbo PH, Roberts PR. Francona MGR.

SECOND TEAM: Varitek C, Vaughn 1B, Doerr 2B, Lowell 3B, Pesky SS, Yastrzemski LF, DiMaggio CF, Nixon RF, Ps—Clemens, Tiant, Wakefield, Eckersley, Radatz. Cronin MGR.

THIRD TEAM: Gedman C, Scott 1B, Remy 2B, Malzone 3B, Petrocelli SS, Rice  LF, Smith CF, Conigliaro RF, Ps—Ruth, Wood, Schilling, Lee, Lonborg. Williams MGR.

Oops! BenCher Lets Slip Manager Search Plans

Getty Images

The next time Red Sox General Manager Ben Cherington appears on WEEI/93.7's Dennis & Callahan Morning Show, he might want to stop in at Dunkin' Donuts for a large black coffee with a Turbo Shot. In the midst of a wide-ranging interview, Cherington seemed to be trapped into admitting that he will be embarking on a manager search this offseason. READ: Bobby V. is history. Not that this is a great shock to any of us, it's just that everyone in the NOG has been in ironclad denial mode on the manager's status—who is signed through next year. Here's the operative quote:

"One of the things, as I look back at last offseason, that didn't go perfectly was simply the amount of time that we spent on the manager search and what that did to the rest of the offseason. I would like to spend less time on it this offseason, that's for sure."

Pretty unambiguous, wouldn't you say?

Final Fenway Tilt Results In Surprising Loss, 4-2

Jared Wickerham/Getty Images

Partway through the final Fenway game of 2012, the Red Sox pulled off an impressive double play. James Loney ranged far to his right, got to the ball, fired to second and the relay just nipped the Tampa runner. Then, the Red Sox infield started to throw the ball around the infield for the rest of the inning—except there were three outs. That tells you all you need to know about these 2012 Carmine Hose. They lost last night, 4-2—recording their 87th loss of the campaign. Lester lost another lead, yadda, yadda, yadda. Oh, the pre-game All-Fenway Team ceremony was great.

POLL: Near Two-Thirds Miss Youk's 'Intensity'

Early results to our latest FenwayNation Poll suggest that it's the 'hustle' and 'intensity' that we  miss most about the erstwhile Kevin Youkilis. As the chart shows, almost two-thirds of our readers say they miss those traits the most (65.2%). Next on the list is the famous 'YOOOUK' chant (17.4%), followed by his unorthodox batting stance (13.0%). Interestingly, only small percentages (2.2% each) chose his omnipresent, dripping sweat and his several practice swings before entering the batter's box. Nobody (0%) picked his signature goatee as something they miss about Youk. You can still vote in this poll HERE.

World Baseball 'Classic' Again Poaches On MLB

Do you want the bad news or the bad news? Actually, that's far too negative—there is one good thing about the 2013 World Baseball Classic. Red Sox fans no longer care what impact it will have on Daisuke Matsuzaka. Yet another round of this pointless tournament will be foisted on baseball fans this Spring—in venues as far-flung as Japan, Taiwan, Puerto Rico, Phoenix and San Francisco. This monstrosity starts on March 2nd—right after the start of Spring Training—and ends on March 19th at AT&T Park in San Francisco. So, players from virtually every team will be flying all over creation to compete for their respective national teams—when they should be training with their MLB clubs. The season will again be skewed by injury just so Japan can—for the third time—be anointed the phony "World Champion". Ridiculous.

Eric Gagne Alleges 80 Percent Dodger HGH Use

Eric Gagne (Getty Images)

Former Red Sox pitcher Eric Gagne, who has admitted using performance enhancing drugs during his career, alleges that 80% of his Dodger teammates used HGH during his tenure there. Gagne spent eight years with the Dodgers on teams that included a bevy of super-stars who may now come under suspicion of PED use. In his Cy Young year alone (2003), the LA roster was brimming with big names. While Gagne does not "name names" in his new book (Game Over: The Story of Eric Gagne) only time will tell whether players on those teams will get dragged into the PED mess with these allegations. In Gagne's one stint with the Red Sox (the 2007 championship season), he pitched just 18.2 innings with a 6.75 ERA. To get Gagne, Boston gave up David Murphy—who has turned into a solid .286 career hitter (308 with 14 HRs this year).

POLL: What Do You Miss Most About Youk?

If POLL Not Visible, Click HERE

'Tek Close To Special Assistant To BenCher Job

The Defining Moment

Multiple reports indicate that former Red Sox Captain Jason Varitek will soon take on a new role: as a Special Assistant to General Manager Ben Cherington. While speculation has swirled around Varitek being named the new manager, it appears that he's much more likely to get an administrative role—allowing him to be involved system-wide in player evaluation. This would be a superb move on the part of the Red Sox, keeping a respected "lifer" in the fold as the new culture takes hold on Yawkey Way.

Price Is Right; Red Sox 'Come On Down'

Jared Wickerham/Getty Images

David Price struck out 13 Carmine Hose, but this game was lost when Clay Buchholz did this in the second inning: walk, walk, three-run HR. After that, the Red Sox descent back into the cellar of the American League East began in earnest. With Toronto's 4-0 win over the Orioles, and our 5-2 loss to Tampa, we are now just one-half game out of the basement. Folks, we are relegated to scoring runs on balks and bad base-running plays. One more home game.

Bad Year May Force Red Sox In Right Direction

Bill James (USA Today)

In a fascinating piece on the FanGraphs website, Dave Cameron lays out a convincing case that the new "valuation" culture on Yawkey Way may be the wave of the future. In the past, Boston would target players based on talent evaluation, and then pay whatever the market would bear to get those players. The new reality—hinted at by the inimitable Bill James—is a more complete player valuation that factors in cost as well as talent. Frankly, this doesn't seem too dissimilar from the MoneyBall that Billy Beane started years ago, but what do I know? In any event, the awful 2012 season may have forced Boston to be a leading-edge player in this new orientation. As Cameron points out, the huge increases in national TV revenue will swell the coffers of even the most marginal franchises—pushing up the cost of free agents for everyone. Big-ticket free agent signings have been—and will likely continue to be—a bust. So, this new "valuation" method should stand a much better chance of success. This Winter will be the first test of this new paradigm. And that paradigm had better deliver a playoff team next October.

Do Red Sox Think They're Still Playing Orioles?

Not to pile on or anything, but in a 'Twitter Pic' sent out by CSNNE's Maureen Mullen, it appears that the Red Sox think they're still playing the Orioles tonight, not the Tampa Bay Rays (see pic).

I wonder if Bobby Valentine knows whether David Price—who apparently cleared very late waivers and was traded to Baltimore—is a lefty or not.

I know this seems like a petty issue—but this is a corporation valued at around $2 billion that is supposed to be a first class operation. Holy Cow!

Sandberg Should Be Red Sox Managerial Choice

IronPig Skipper Ryne Sandberg

In 2010, the Red Sox interviewed Hall of Famer Ryne Sandberg for their open AAA Pawtucket managerial job. They were impressed, but opted to promote from within with Arnie Beyeler—who, by the way, has done a great job. This off-season, they should not pass on Sandberg again. They should make him their major league manager. The former Cub All-Star has now managed for five years in the minor leagues—compiling a .518 winning percentage (438-408). He will immediately command respect from both young and veteran ballplayers in the clubhouse. He will be a credible "name" for the fanbase and the media. His taciturn reputation as a player has been transformed into one of a savvy, assertive on-field boss and a leader who can communicate with players. This latter characteristic is probably the single most important trait in a modern skipper. Of course, Sandberg would have to be assured by Ben Cherington that he can truly impose a new culture on the Carmine Hose. He has the managerial experience, is still relatively young (52), can lead, and is a legitimate baseball presence. We need all of that. After being shunned by the Cubs organization, Sandberg has found a home in the Phillies system. He is considered the successor to Charlie Manuel—but Charlie's not going anywhere for a while. Boston should snap up Sandberg as quickly as possible after October 3rd.

FN Trivia Contest: Win A Fenway A&E/MLB DVD!

WE HAVE A WINNER! THANKS FOR ENTERING!

CORRECT ANSWER: 11 times.

FenwayNation has teamed up with A+E Networks Home Entertainment/MLB Productions to offer our readers a chance to win a fantastic new documentary DVD celebrating 100 years of Fenway Park. Fenway Park: 100 Years As The Heart Of Red Sox Nation is a definitive look at the role of the oldest park in baseball in the rich history of the Boston Red Sox. All you have to do to win this great gift is give the first correct answer to the following Trivia question:

The 2012 Red Sox are still in danger of finishing last in the American League East. How many times in their history have the Red Sox finished in last place in either their division or league? 

Four In Five See No Tix Price Drop In 2013

The early results to our latest FenwayNation Poll indicate that four in five readers (80%) say a 2013 drop in ticket prices is either 'not very likely' (45.7%) or 'not likely at all' (34.3%). As the chart shows, only 5.7% think it is 'very likely' that Red Sox ownership will lower ticket prices next year, while 14.3% think such a drop is 'somewhat likely'. You can still vote in this poll HERE.

Coming Logjam At Hot Corner For Red Sox

As we all look forward to the 2013 season, one of the areas we thought was settled was third base. Prior to his injury, Will Middlebrooks convinced everyone that he was the heir apparent at the hot corner. Maybe, maybe not. Most respected independent talent evaluators suggest that Boston has at least three top-flight prospects targeted for third base. Middlebrooks, of course, is the most advanced—with solid major league experience this year. But Xander Bogaerts, who many think of as a shortstop, is still growing and is ultimately projected at third. The 19-year old Bogaerts hit .307 this year, with 20 HRs between Single and Double A. On top of that, 21-year old Garin Cecchini, a fourth-round pick in 2010, had a solid year at Single A—hitting .305 with a .394 OBP. Look for the Red Sox to dip into this "surplus" at the hot corner to make an off-season deal or two.

POLL: Will NOG Lower Ticket Prices In 2013?

If POLL Not Visible, Click HERE

Respectful Tribute To Johnny Pesky At Fenway

Jim Rogash/Getty Images

The Red Sox organization did itself proud with yesterday's moving tribute to the late Sox legend Johnny Pesky. An impressive array of current and former players turned out to say goodbye to the man who spent 70 years with the organization. From Roger Clemens to Will Middlebrooks, they spoke of Johnny's devotion to the team and the fans. At the end of the ceremony, each player laid a red rose by the symbolic number "6" on the Fenway infield. The great Dick Flavin left everyone with this fitting bit of poetry: “The game of life’s what counts with you, we have got your measure, farewell, we love you Johnny, you’re a Boston treasure.”

Pedro: Character Change Can Fix Red Sox

Photo by Chitose Suzuki

Pedro Martinez, in town to honor Johnny Pesky, said if the Red Sox can fix their "character", they have the talent to bounce back in 2013.

The former Red Sox ace said he had experienced down years that led to a resurgence, and hopes that Sox management "will make the adjustments they need to make" over the Winter to allow the team to be competitive again.

Cody Ross And Red Sox Have Begun Pact Talks

The 'Cheerful' Cody Ross

Multiple sources are now reporting that the Red Sox and Cody Ross have already begun talks to bring the outfielder back to Boston. Currently on a one-year, $3 million deal, Ross has been one of the few feel-good experiences of this dismal campaign. So much so, that Larry Lucchino's "Pep Rally" email referred to him as the "cheerful" Cody Ross. Despite that, Ross apparently still wants to stay in Carmine Hose. As we have stated before, this signing is an off-season must-do for Ben Cherington. Locking up Ross and Papi are the first steps that need to be taken before the "prudent" Winter spending spree can begin—which has to center first on adding starting pitching.

Felix Catnips Orioles; Red Sox Win, 2-1

Jim Rogash/Getty Images

Felix Doubront struck out a career high eleven, giving up just one run in seven innings in a 2-1 no decision win over the second-place Orioles. Cody Ross knocked in Dustin Pedroia with the winning run in the eighth inning to gain the victory—while Andrew Bailey delivered yet another cliff-hanger save. The win, coupled with another Toronto loss, gives the Carmine Hose a full 1.5 game cushion over our cousins to the North. On another note—apropos only of 2013—John Lackey hurled two innings in an intra-squad game today in Florida. He had three strikeouts, and gave up no hits and no walks.

Mike Scioscia's Not Walking Through That Door

FenwayNation Photo

Scratch one prominently-mentioned Bobby Valentine replacement off the list. Los Angeles Angels Of Anaheim, Orange County, California, United States Of America, Planet Earth owner Arte Moreno announced that Mike Scioscia will be returning as manager of his team in 2013—no matter what happens for the rest of this year. This is probably a good thing, since Scioscia would not likely fit the emerging "culture" on Yawkey Way. So, that leaves Jim Leyland as the only proven veteran manager who might be available after his high-priced Tigers miss the post-season. And, of course, John Farrell—the only guy in the AL East who has done a worse job than Valentine.

O's Get Extra Inning Win! (Yawn); Top Sox, 9-6

Jim Rogash/Getty Images

The Red Sox have scored just 18 fewer runs than the first-place Evil Ones, yet they sit 21 games behind the Pinstriped Posers. It makes you ask yourself: How the heck did this happen? As is usual, pitching is the answer. Today, Alfredo Aceves coughed up 3 12th-innings runs that allowed the Orioles a 9-6 victory at Fenway. Speaking of pitching, Aaron Cook gave up five earned runs in 5 1/3 innings to start the ball rolling—so to speak. In any event, the Red Sox have now lost 85 games—and they've still got 9 left to play! On the plus side, Ryan Lavarnway and Danny Valencia (all together now, 'Who?') were the offensive stars.

Is MLB Going From MoneyBall To WeaverBall?

Weaver: The Pope Of Pop

In a recent article by Sports Illustrated's Joe Sheehan (September 17th issue), it becomes clear that baseball has moved out of the so-called MoneyBall Era into one more attuned to the tenets of former Orioles manager Earl Weaver. Basically, the home run is back! As Sheehan points out, while overall runs scored, OBP, average and singles are all down, teams are hitting 1.02 HRs per game—the highest in years. The Yankees and Orioles are among the top five teams in 'homer-centric' offense (48.6% and 47.5%, respectively). Among those top five, only the Blue Jays (#1) are not playoff contenders. Since base runners are rarer than ever, it's seems counterproductive to do the "small ball" things like moving runners along and stealing bases. Just hack away for the fences. And the rate of homers per fly ball is way up, too—at 11.3%. The Yankees are #1 in that department at an incredible 16.8% followed by the Birds at 13.8%. With so much money to spend in the off-season, the Red Sox might want to invest in a few positional boppers—after they get some starting pitching. As Earl Weaver said, "The key to winning baseball games is pitching, fundamentals, and three run homers." Maybe the tide is turning back.

Ellsbury Out Of Red Sox Lineup Again Saturday

Elise Amendola, AP

For the second consecutive day, Jacoby Ellsbury is out of the Red Sox lineup with a "lat strain". In the final game at Tampa, Bobby Valentine started Pedro Ciriaco is center to spell Ellsbury yet another game on the stupid, fake TropicanaTurf. We all know how that turned out. Ellsbury was hot of late, and served as a spark at the top of the Boston line-up. Rumors persist about an off-season trade of the talented center-fileder—since he is Boras-Bound and likely out of Boston after 2013.

Red Sox Valiantly Prevent Bigger Empire Lead

Jim Rogash/Getty Images

In a selfless display of Anti-Yankee zeal, the Red Sox handed the Baltimore Orioles a further opportunity to keep pace with the Evil Empire, falling to their feathered friends, 4-2. Jon Lester lost for the first time in 21 tries against Baltimore—which says a lot about this horrific season. After the Red Sox battled to tie the score at two in the fifth, Lester gave back the lead in the sixth. As with every year, it's all about the starting pitching, and tonight Miguel Gonzalez (a former Red Sox prospect) was better than Lester. Once Baltimore got the lead, their superb bullpen did the rest—with Jim Johnson setting a new Oriole save record. Hey, Toronto lost.

FenwayNation 'Best O' Nation' Media Awards

FenwayNation's editors today announced their annual "Best O' Nation" Media Awards for 2012. The Boston Herald captured best "Sox Newspaper Coverage" for the year. The Providence Journal's Brian MacPherson was named best "Baseball Writer", while the legendary Bob Ryan once again got the nod for best "General Sports Columnist". WEEI.com's Rob Bradford was chosen as best "Web Columnist", while best "Web Blogger" honors went to the CSNNE.com's Sean McAdam. Best "Play-By-Play" kudos once again went to WEEI/ESPN's Dave O'Brien, while best "Color Analysis" went to another local legend, NESN's Jerry Remy. 98.5 The Hub's Tony Massarotti was the choice for best "Local Radio Sports Personality" and WBZ-TV's Dan Roche was again selected as best "Local TV Sports Anchor". Congratulations to all of this year's recipients!

Boston's 'EEI Wins 'Sports Station Of The Year'

Boston's WEEI radio (93.7 FM) won the prestigious Marconi Award as the top Sports Station Of The Year at the National Association Of Broadcasters (NAB) meeting in Dallas. This was the fourth time that the Red Sox flagship station has garnered top honors at the Marconi Awards. WEEI beat out four other stations from: Philadelphia (WIP-FM), Chicago (WSCR-AM), Dallas (KCTK-AM) and Detroit (WXYT-FM). Congratulations to everyone associated with WEEI.

Mentally 'Walked-Off' Red Sox Lose 7-4 To Rays

AP Photo/Scott Iskowitz

Your 2012 Carmine Hose suffered their seventh walk-off loss of the year—but the truth is, this team has mentally walked-off for weeks now. Going into the bottom of the ninth with a 4-1 lead and new "closer" Andrew Bailey on the hill, they walked-off down three and now capable of only 79 wins if they run the table. The blown save ruined a true feel-good moment—with formerly dissed Jose Iglesias getting three hits, including his first career home run. But no, no feel goods here. We'll spare you the details, but this one was a 7-4 stinker.

Uh-Oh, Cody Ross Wants To Sign With 'Winner'

The "Cheerful" Cody Ross

Not so long ago, if a player approaching free agency preferred to sign with a "winner", Boston was always on the list. Well, welcome to reality, sports fans. According to a report by Rob Bradford of WEEI.com, Cody Ross is more than willing to talk to the Red Sox about a contract extenstion—but he made it plain that his primary consideration is a winning environment. Oops. Unless the Red Sox can convince Ross—not to mention the fan base—that their "prudent" spending spree over the Winter will produce a better team, the outfielder will be long gone.

Not-So-Nice-K Gets Hammered; Sox Lose 13-3

J. Meric/Getty Images

Need to get your slumping team back in gear for a playoff run? Just order up a heapin' helpin' of Daisuke Matsuzaka! Dice-K gave up five runs on nine hits in three plus innings in a filthy 13-3 loss in Tampa. In the disastrous sixth inning, four different Boston hurlers issued six walks—two with the bases loaded. In his best Zen Master mode, Bobby Valentine said, ''Walks are the killer bee.'' Indeed. Ironically, with two Toronto losses, the Carmine Hose vaulted into fourth place all by their lonesome. Yes!

'High Maintenance' Aceves Again Wants To Start

Alfredo Builds Team Spirit

Admit it, Alfredo Aceves' behavior was one of the few interesting things about your 2012 Carmine Hose. From feuding with Dustin Pedroia (see pic) to taking 495N to get back to the dugout without confronting Bobby V., Alfredo has been—well—interesting. Now we learn that the mercurial Aceves again wants to be in the Red Sox starting rotation. He claims to have been 'misled' about starting this year and was upset that Daniel "Must Be The Clouds In My Eyes" Bard took his spot. The real question is whether Boston will trade Aceves and let him be some other team's headache. Of course, his overall career numbers are pretty darn good and—as we have found out too many times—you can never have enough starters. Our guess is he is "re-upped" next year, and Bobby isn't.

Olney Thinks Leyland Would Fit With Red Sox

If 'ya got 'em, smoke 'em

ESPN's Buster Olney appeared on WEEI's Mutt & Merloni radio show today and suggested that Tigers Manager Jim Leyland would be a good choice as skipper of the Red Sox in 2013. Said Olney:

"Jim Leyland would be, for me, really sort of a fascinating choice if the Tigers were to not make the playoffs and fire him...But if he's out there, shoot, if I'm the Red Sox, am I talking to him? Absolutely...He is great in a clubhouse, guys. You talk about contact with players and that type of thing, he would be tremendous."

Clearly, the mainstream national sports media has already decided that Bobby V. is history. It will be interesting to see how quickly the Red Sox move once the season ends on October 3rd—and, to what degree GM Ben Cherington is given the power to make the managerial decision this time around.

Heyman: Bobby V.'s A 'Goner' At Season's End

Patrick McDermott/Getty Images

According to a report by Jon Heyman of CBS Sports.Com, baseball industry sources are indicating that Bobby Valentine will not be "returning for a second season". Not that this is a big surprise for anyone following the Red Sox closely. Nevertheless, once the national media starts citing baseball "sources", you have to think the NOG is letting their brethren know the truth. Valentine's behavior over the last week—despite the recent positive run by the team—has isolated him even further from the local media and the fan base. It's just a matter of whether or not it happens on Friday, October 5th or a few days later.

All-Star Gala Follows 'Knuckleball' Premiere

Editor With HOFamer Niekro

FenwayNation was lucky enough to be in attendance at the "after party" following the Boston premiere of the new documentary, "Knuckleball" (see our review of the film here). The event took place at the Royal Rooters Club at Fenway Park and featured many of the stars of the film—including Red Sox legend Tim Wakefield. Also in attendance were Hall Of Famer Phil Niekro, Charlie Hough and Belmont's Wilbur Wood. Filmmakers Ricki Stern and Annie Sundberg were also there—basking in the positive vibes from the premiere. Talking baseball with these great pitchers was a delight—and seeing Niekro still donning his Braves cap (see pic) was a real treat. Niekro was a revelation both in the film and at the event. At one point, when asked how he prepared for hitters, he said: "I didn't. I just said, hey, I got the ball, you got the bat, try to hit it. Eventually, I'll beat you." Now, that's game preparation.

'Worst Evers' Win Fourth Of Five; Beat Rays, 7-5

J. Meric/Getty Images

''We're just not playing well and we've got to figure it out relatively quick - not relatively quick, very quickly.'' Terry Francona, circa September 18th 2011? Nope, Joe Maddon, circa September 18, 2012. As the Devil Dogs continued their spiral toward Fall Golf, the suddenly surging Red Sox have won four of their last five. Last night, Boston took advantage of more lousy Tampa fielding and spanked the Rays, 7-5 behind another good outing by Felix Doubront—giving up just one hit over six innings. Ellsbury, Pedroia, Salty, Loney and Lavarnway (big two-run double) knocked in the runs. Boston is now poised to sweep Tampa, and effectively put them out of playoff contention. Oh, and by the way, the Orioles beat the A's last night/this morning in 18 innings, 4-2 and are back in a first-place tie with the Evil Ones.

REVIEW: 'Knuckleball' Is A Four-Star Treat

Red Sox Icon Tim Wakefield

'Knuckleball'
A film by Ricki Stern and Annie Sundberg
Opens 9/21 At Coolidge Corner Theatre

When I first heard that a documentary film was coming out about the knuckleball, it seemed a little odd. How would you fill a feature-length movie with an examination of a non-rotating baseball pitch? Well, producers Ricki Stern and Annie Sundberg have done it—and in the process created one of the most entertaining sports documentaries in years. The reason is that it's not just about the knuckleball—it's about the struggles of the very few men who have tried to master it in the big leagues. Just as the pitch itself is unpredictable, so were the careers of Tim Wakefield, R.A. Dickey, Phil Niekro, Charlie Hough and Belmont's own Wilbur Wood. The film focuses on Wakefield and Dickey, but it also tells the tale of the camaraderie among all the knucklers—and the responsibility they all feel to the legacy of the pitch that made their dreams come true. This is more than a baseball movie, it's a movie about not giving up. As Phil Niekro told Tim Wakefield early in his career, "Accept your losses, but never accept defeat." We recommend this movie highly—four stars! It opens on Friday in most major cities.

SEE THE KNUCKLEBALL TRAILER HERE!

Pawtucket Red Sox Battle For AAA Title Tonight

The Triple A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox takes on Pacific Coast League Champion Reno (D-Backs) tonight for the one-game AAA Championship. Led by OF Bryce Brentz, the PawSox will look to keep the AAA Crown in the International League. The game will be televised live on the NBC Sports Network. The PawSox complied a 79-65 regular season record and then beat Scranton/Wilkes-Barre (Evil Ones) and Charlotte (White Sox) to grab the Governors' Cup.

Tim Bogar To Interview With 'Stros Tomorrow

Bogar: 2013 AL West Foe?

UPDATE: 'Stros/Bogar To Meet In Tampa

According to a report by the Globe's Nick Cafardo, Red Sox bench coach Tim Bogar will interview for the Houston Astros managerial job on Wednesday of this week. It's not clear whether Astros general manager Jeff Luhnow and/or team president George Postolos will travel to Tampa or whether Bogar will go to Houston. Former Phillies manager Larry Bowa has confirmed that he has already interviewed with the team for the manager's spot. The Astros, recently purchased by a group headed by millionaire Jim Crane, have tanked even more than the Red Sox this year—posting a ridiculous 48-99 record—leading to the dismissal of former Sox bench coach Brad Mills. The Astros will move to the American League West next year.

MLB Probes Escobar's Slur During Sox Game

UPDATE: Escobar suspended three games

What a year! Even when the Red Sox are completely innocent and unconnected to events, they somehow allow controversy to stick to them like fly paper. MLB has announced an investigation into the homophobic slur written in Yunel Escobar's eye black during Saturday's game against the Red Sox in Toronto. You can't make this stuff up, folks. Apparently, the statement was written in Spanish (“TU ERE MARICON” see pic) and translates into a bizarre slur against gays. The Commissioner's Office is conducting the inquiry. The Blue Jays released the following statement: “[We] do not support discrimination of any kind nor condone the message displayed by Yunel Escobar during Saturday’s game.”

Keeping It In Perspective—The Mariner Factor

As our Carmine Hose go on a 3 out of 4 tear, it's instructive to keep things in perspective. First of all, the Red Sox need to run the table over the last 14 games to get to .500. Secondly, we need to remember that the Seattle Mariners have won three more games than Boston—the Mariners. You know, that team tucked up in the upper left hand corner of America? Remember them? Seattle's rankings (among the 30 MLB teams) are:

• 29th in runs (561);
• 30th in batting average (.233);
• 30th in on-base percentage (.294);
• 30th in slugging percentage (.365).

And this team is ahead of us! By three games! That's how bad 2012 is. To (dramatically) paraphrase Pulp Fiction's Winston Wolf character: "Let's not get too excited about this, OK?"

'Knuckleball' Has Boston Premiere Tonight!

Tonight, Boston will host the premiere of a new film about the most confounding pitch in baseball. The film, Knuckleball!, stars Red Sox great Tim Wakefield and his fellow knuckle-baller R.A. Dickey. The film examines why the pitch is so difficult to hit and why so few men have been members of the knuckleball fraternity. Joining Wakefield will be a bevy of celebrities—along with former knuckleballers Phil Niekro, Charlie Hough, Jim Bouton and Wilbur Wood. In honor of the Boston premiere, Mayor Menino will declare September 18th Knuckleball! Day at City Hall Plaza between 4:00PM and 5:30PM. You can attend the premiere TONIGHT and meet Tim Wakefield and all the other celebrities! Here are the particulars:

WHERE:
Screening—Regal Fenway Stadium 13
VIP Party—Royal Rooters at Fenway (Entrance at Gate B)
WHEN:
Screening—TONIGHT—Tuesday, September 18th at 7:00 PM
VIP party—TONIGHT—Tuesday, September 18th at 9:30 PM
COST:
Screening Only—$30
Screening and VIP Party—$100

You can purchase tickets to the event online HERE.

Sox On Three Of Four Rampage; Top Rays, 5-2

AP Photo/Chris O'Meara

Maybe this will be the "launching point" for Spring Training 2013. Lee County Championship here we come! The Red Sox won for the third time in four games, topping the sloppy Rays, 5-2. Taking advantage of three Devil Dog errors, Boston was hitless through five innings until a two-run sixth—capped by Jacoby Ellsbury's two-run HR. After the inning, Rays starter Alex Cobb scuffled with his battery mate, Jose Molina. Aaron Cook looked like Aaron Harang out there (sorry, bad Dodger reference)—hurling six innings of one-run ball. Mauro Gomez (2) and Ellsbury (1) added RBIs in the seventh to widen the lead. Just 14 more wins in 14 tries and the Sox finish the season at .500.

REPORT: Rangers Doing Homework On Jacoby

Associated Press

According to ESPN's Buster Olney, the Texas Rangers have already done "background work" on Jacoby Ellsbury—with an eye toward acquiring the Red Sox center fielder in the off-season. Olney reports that Texas has also done their due diligence on Arizona outfielder Justin Upton—who is reportedly in Boston's plans as well. All of this maneuvering comes with the expectation that the Rangers will have doubts about signing Josh Hamilton long-term. Ellsbury has one year left on his Red Sox contract, but he could be dealt in the off-season.

It's Time To Send Bobby Valentine Packing

Bobby V. Now Has To Go (Reuters)

This site has generally been sympathetic to the plight of Bobby Valentine. He was hired against the wishes of his General Manager. He was ostensibly brought in to 'kick butt', but when he did show some backbone, he was smacked down by ownership. He inherited an entitled clubhouse that ran a player-friendly manager out of town. He was forced to field a AAA team after a huge—albeit badly needed—trade. You had to feel for the guy. But his behavior over the last few days has changed our view. In a way, it seems that Valentine is begging his masters to fire him. First, he calls out his roster as "the weakest roster we've ever had in September in the history of baseball." Great, that should help things! Then, yesterday, he embarrassed a young prospect by pinch-hitting for him in the middle of an at-bat. These two actions have shifted the paradigm from one of 'Bobby as victim' to one of 'Bobby as perpetrator'. He is making a mockery of himself, his players, the city and the fans. He has crossed the line. He should be fired immediately.

FN On The Air!—On WDEV Radio In Vermont

Ernie Paicopolos, The Editor-In-Chief of FenwayNation, was  a guest tonight on Jeff Fuller's live sports talk show (SCORE - The Sunday Night Special Edition) on WDEV radio in Waterbury, Vermont. Jeff and the Ernie discussed a wide range of Red Sox and Patriots topics—including the moves the Sox need to make in the off-season, the few positives of 2012 (Middlebrooks, Ciriaco), the tenure of Bobby Valentine, and the likelihood of signing big-ticket free agents like Josh Hamilton. The devastating Patriots loss to Arizona (20-18) was also discussed. This is FenwayNation's third appearance on Jeff's program. You can check out his blog HERE. We look forward to appearing on Jeff's show again in the near future to discuss what the Carmine Hose can do to rebound in 2013.

FN Trivia Contest: Win A Fenway 100 DVD Set!

WE HAVE A WINNER! No More emails, please!

Correct Answer: Mike Lowell

OK, both the Red Sox and Patriots lost today. The Bruins are on ice for the year—or technically, not on ice. Doc Rivers, our Nation turns its lonely eyes to you. In the meantime, how about a Boston Red Sox And Fenway Park 100th Anniversary Collector's DVD Set from A&E Networks to cheer you up? This amazing collection of 12 DVDs covers classic Fenway games from the 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s and the two Championship Seasons of 2004 and 2007. You will enjoy 28 full hours of classic action at Fenway Park over the decades. It also includes two documentaries on the 100th anniversary. This is a must-have for any serious Red Sox fan.

All you have to do win this great gift is give the first correct answer to the following Trivia question:

In the 2007 World Series, the Red Sox collected just two stolen bases. One of them was by Jacoby Ellsbury. Who got the other one?

Send you answer to: fenwaynation@comcast.net

The first correct answer wins a Boston Red Sox And Fenway Park 100th Anniversary Collector's DVD Set! 

Winners in the Continental US and Canada only.

Bobby. V. Pinch-Hits For Sanity; Sox Lose, 5-0

Getty Images

Do you get the feeling that Bobby Valentine is trying everything he can to get fired? Today, with two outs in the seventh and a man on second, he pinch-hit for Jose Iglesias in the middle of his at-bat. Daniel Nava took over and promptly made the third out. Is this how you instill confidence in a young player? Valentine's excuse: "Just trying to get a run for Jon, obviously. Told Daniel if (Ciriaco) steals second, you've got it.'' Holy Grady Little, Batman. Jon Lester again pitched well enough to lose–going seven innings and yielding three earned runs in the 5-0 loss. Dustin Pedroia had two of the seven Boston hits. Safely ensconced in the cellar once again, our $190 million Carmine Hose head to....aw, who cares?

'Weakest Ever Roster' Wins Second Straight, 3-2

The Canadian Press, Frank Gunn

Maybe Bobby V. should insult his players before every game. On Saturday, the Red Sox pulled off the rarest of rare feats in 2012—they won for the second straight time, 3-2 over the Blue Jays. The win allowed Boston to inch percentage points ahead of Toronto into fifth place—not exactly bragging rights, but something. Today, it was the amazing Pedro Ciriaco who nailed the game-winning two-out hit in the ninth inning scoring Salty. After falling behind yet again at the start, Cody Ross hit his 21st HR to tie the score at one. Clay Buchholz had another fine performance—going seven full innings and giving up just one earned run on only four hits.

A+E Networks Joins FN For DVD Giveaway

A+E Networks Home Entertainment/MLB Productions is partnering with FenwayNation to offer readers a chance to win special DVD sets celebrating Fenway Park's 100th Anniversary. The special DVD sets are:

The 12-Disc Collector's Set

1.) Boston Red Sox And Fenway Park 100th Anniversary Collector's DVD Set. This amazing collection of 12 DVDs covers classic Fenway games from the 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s and the two Championship Seasons of 2004 and 2007. You will enjoy 28 full hours of classic action at Fenway Park over the decades. It also includes two documentaries on the 100th anniversary. This is a must-have for any serious Red Sox fan.

2.) Fenway Park: 100 Years As The Heart Of Red Sox Nation DVD Set. This is an all-new documentary on the Centennial of Fenway. It's the definitive documentary from MLB Productions.

Stay tuned to FenwayNation over the next several days, as we will be holding Trivia Contests to give away one of the Collector's DVD 12-set and two of the 100th Anniversary Documentary DVD Set. All of us at FenwayNation thank A+E Networks for making this great offer to FN readers possible!

The Kids Are All Right; Red Sox Beat Jays, 8-5

Mauro Gomez (Getty Images)

Bobby Valentine might think it's the worst September roster in baseball history, but the younger parts of it came through on Friday night in an 8-5 win over Toronto at SkyDome. Mauro Gomez had a key two-run triple in the ninth to break a 5-5 tie, and also scored two runs. Ryan Lavarnway clouted a game-tying three-run homerun and drove in four. Daniel Nava nailed two big two-out RBIs. Daisuke Matsuzaka had a typically bizarre outing—and yet left with a 5-3 lead and a chance for a win. He went 5 1/3, giving up four runs on just 3 hits. Of course, he threw 98 pitches. The win pulls the Red Sox within a game of the Jays in this weekend's Stupor Bowl Series for last place.

Bobby V. On Roster: 'Weakest Ever In Baseball'

Bobby Being Bobby

Bobby Valentine can't seem to keep controversy from knocking at his door. On Friday, he stated that his current Red Sox team has "the weakest roster we've ever had in September in the history of baseball." Wow. That's quite a statement—even for Bobby. Honesty is certainly an admirable attribute, but this is hardly the time to be throwing your own players under the bus. This whole debacle is not solely his fault, but the cumulative effect of his style of leadership has not helped. He needs to go at the end of the year.